Chincoteague Is For History Lovers


Breakfast at your hotel, B&B, rental house or campground or in one of the many restaurants serving hot, full meals to get you started.

Learn about “The Chincoteague Story” with a self-guided historic walking/biking tour of the island. Explore the island’s many neighborhoods and visit the historic buildings in Historic Downtown and beyond. Tour maps also available at Chamber office at 6733 Maddox Boulevard. If you would rather listen to a local guide regale stories of bygone years, enjoy a guided history tour of Chincoteague Island (seasonal) and learn about local characters — maybe even a few ghosts!! Several tailored tours are available.

Visit the majestic, red and white striped Assateague Lighthouse built in 1867 on Assateague Island. Seasonally, learn about the lighthouse’s history from a docent and climb the 175-steps up the circular staircase to the top for majestic views of Assateague, Chincoteague and Wallops Islands as well as portions of coastal Virginia and Maryland. Enjoy a walk on the beach to see the old Coast Guard Life Saving Station at the southern end of Assateague Island.

Picnic at one of our beautiful waterfront parks with a boxed lunch from one of our many fabulous eateries or enjoy indoor dining at one of our wonderful restaurants. 

Take a boat cruise around Chincoteague Island while learning more about Chincoteague and Assateague Island history from knowledgeable boat captains. Chincoteaguers have made their living off the waters of Chincoteague and Assateague Channels and the Atlantic Ocean for generations. The seafood industry (oystering and clamming) was the prime source of income for many islanders prior to the Ash Wednesday Storm of 1962. You will pass by several active Aqua Farms as you enjoy your peaceful time on the water. You can even take a tour of one (seasonal). 

Step back in time and visit the Museum of Chincoteague Island. Learn about the island’s rich history and traditions through various exhibits showcasing the first-order Fresnel lens from the Assateague Lighthouse, decoy carving, our famous pony, Misty of Chincoteague, and the Beebe Ranch where she grew up, the oyster industry, farming, our volunteer Fire Company, the Ash Wednesday Storm, and more.

Visit the Captain Timothy Hill House, Chincoteague Island’s oldest house; circa 1800. Now a historic house museum, guests are always welcome to visit. Discover the early sailing ships carved into the exterior logs on all sides of the house any time of year or take a tour with a docent during their summer hours.

Learn about the history of Misty of Chincoteague by visiting Miss Molly’s Inn Bed & Breakfast where Marguerite Henry wrote world famous children’s book in 1947 and art deco Island Theatre, circa 1945, to view Misty’s hoofprints which were cast in concrete at the movie premiere of Misty in 1961. Follow in Misty’s footsteps with the Misty Trail Map.

Meet a local carver to learn about decoy carving’s rich history and traditions.

Dine at one of our fine restaurants feasting on fresh from the waters, clams, world-famous Chincoteague Oysters, and the “catch of the day” which could be red drum, flounder, rockfish, or tuna. 

Shop for treasures while strolling down Historic Main Street, with many buildings originating in the 1920’s. Antique stores are another pleasant source of historical finds on the island. There are many books available about the origins of our wild ponies.  Check out our local gift shops and bookstores to dig deeper into the mysteries of our small island. 

Explore the Eastern Shore’s museums and antique malls that are rich in history.

Complete your day with an ice cream sundae at one of our amazing ice cream parlors.

Check our events calendar for other special lectures, programs and events happening throughout the year.

 

Please note that some of these activities are seasonal or have been affected by the pandemic. Please contact the Chamber office or the business directly for availability.

Explore other Chincoteague Island Itineraries and Trails